US Congress should not play spoiler-Rice

U.S. national security adviser Susan Rice warns members of Congress not to seek new sanctions against Iran while talks are underway on curbing its nuclear program. Rough Cut (no reporter narration).

▲ Hide Transcript

▶ View Transcript

U.S. national security adviser Susan Rice warned U.S. lawmakers on Monday (March 2) not to seek new sanctions against Iran while it is in talks with world powers on curbing its nuclear program, saying such intervention could ruin the diplomacy.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER SUSAN RICE SAYING:
"Congress has played a hugely important role in helping to build our sanctions on Iran but they shouldn't play the spoiler now. Additional sanctions or restrictive legislation enacted during the negotiations would blow up the talks, divide the international community and cause the United States to be blamed for the failure to reach a deal putting us in much weaker position and endanger the sanctions region itself. Meanwhile, the Iranians are well aware if they walk away from a deal Congress will pass new sanctions immediately and President Obama will support them."
Her remarks came ahead of a speech to Congress on Tuesday by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is expected to argue against U.S. President Barack Obama's Iran strategy.